Elite Thermofiber & Protac first install help

This site is amazing. I have learned so much. I am ordering protac and elite thermofiber this week to do my first install. I had some questions on both products that have come to me as I've been doing research. I would REALLY appreciate your help on them! Thanks!!!

 

1. Which is the best method to keep the thermofiber looking and feeling smooth and soft? I have read a lot about how it can get rough after a couple of washes.

 

2. Does anyone have pictures they can share of how they did their install? As it's my first time, I'm nervous about what to do with the sides. Do I do the back in pieces and then the sides (with small pieces) or can I wrap it around my head (I'm thinking no, so please help). Any advice for keeping it looking natural and not showing would be super.

 

3. What is the best method to keep the protac from feeling bulky and helmet-head like? Is this even avoidable? OR is this really a problem? Some say it's not and others say it is...perhaps its a personal preference thing? I used to have a braid and weave and the feeling of that didn't bother me.

 

4. What is the average time that a protac & elite thermofiber install has lasted for all of you out there who use this as a regular method?

 

5. Any other tips you think would help a first timer!

 

Thank you so so much ladies for all your help!